If you’re searching for a dish that works for just about any gathering—from picnics and potlucks to simple weeknight dinners—this Egg Macaroni Salad checks every box. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with just the right balance of flavors and textures. With tender macaroni, perfectly cooked eggs, and a rich, flavorful dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both classic and comforting.

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple and approachable it is. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge right now, and with just a few easy steps, you can have a delicious side dish ready to chill and serve. Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and start with the first few steps to get this creamy macaroni salad underway.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp paprika (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup celery, finely diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

STEP 1: COOK THE MACARONI

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. You want the pasta tender but not mushy so it holds up well in the salad.

Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

STEP 2: BOIL THE EGGS

Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them completely with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a full boil, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10 to 12 minutes.

Afterward, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool them quickly. Once cooled, peel the eggs and set them aside for chopping and garnish.

STEP 3: PREPARE THE EGGS

Chop 4 of the peeled eggs into small pieces. These will be mixed into the salad for that creamy, hearty texture. Slice the remaining 2 eggs into rounds; you’ll use these later to garnish the top of your finished salad.

ith your macaroni cooked, eggs prepped, and ingredients ready, it’s time to create the creamy dressing and bring everything together into one delicious bowl. This is where the flavors start to meld, turning simple ingredients into a rich and comforting Egg Macaroni Salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

STEP 4: MAKE THE DRESSING

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy, ensuring that all the spices and seasonings are evenly incorporated.

This dressing is what gives the salad its signature tangy, creamy flavor. The mustard adds a bit of brightness, while the paprika and garlic powder bring depth. Apple cider vinegar balances it all out with just a hint of acidity.

STEP 5: COMBINE THE INGREDIENTS

Now it’s time to build your salad. Add the cooled macaroni, chopped eggs, diced celery, diced red onion, and sweet pickle relish to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir everything together using a large spoon or spatula. Be careful not to overmix—you want to keep the pasta and eggs intact for the best texture.

At this point, you’ll start to see how all the colors, textures, and flavors come together beautifully. The crunchy celery and red onion add freshness, while the pickle relish gives a subtle sweetness that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.

STEP 6: CHILL THE SALAD

Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up for the best texture and taste.

While you can serve the salad right away if needed, that extra hour in the fridge really makes a difference in enhancing the flavor.

STEP 7: GARNISH AND SERVE

When ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir. Arrange the sliced eggs you set aside earlier on top of the salad for a pretty presentation. Sprinkle a little extra paprika over the top for color, and add a bit of chopped fresh parsley if you like.

Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, flavorful salad that’s perfect for everything from barbecues and potlucks to family dinners.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Serve alongside grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue ribs.
• Bring to a potluck or picnic for an easy crowd-pleasing side dish.
• Pair with sandwiches or wraps for a simple lunch.
• Great as a make-ahead side dish for holiday gatherings.

Egg Macaroni Salad Recipe You’ll Love for Every Occasion

Your Egg Macaroni Salad is now fully chilled, beautifully garnished, and ready to serve. This creamy, flavorful dish is always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or prepping for a weekday lunch. Before we wrap up, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions, helpful variations, and final tips to ensure your salad turns out perfect every time.

1. CAN I MAKE THIS MACARONI SALAD AHEAD OF TIME?
Yes! In fact, this salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator as the flavors have more time to meld. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance for best results.

2. HOW LONG DOES THIS SALAD LAST IN THE FRIDGE?
Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Stir before serving to refresh the texture if needed.

3. CAN I USE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PASTA?
Absolutely. While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use small shells, ditalini, or rotini. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after chilling.

4. WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE PICKLE RELISH?
You can leave it out or substitute it with chopped dill pickles for a tangier flavor. Some people even add chopped olives for a slightly different twist.

5. CAN I MAKE THIS SALAD LIGHTER?
Yes. Substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version that still offers plenty of creaminess.

6. CAN I ADD PROTEIN OR OTHER MIX-INS?
Definitely. Chopped cooked bacon, shredded chicken, canned tuna, or even small cubes of cheese can be added to turn this into a heartier main dish.

7. HOW DO I PREVENT THE SALAD FROM DRYING OUT IN THE FRIDGE?
If the salad seems a little dry after sitting, simply stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving to bring back its creamy consistency.

FINAL THOUGHTS: CLASSIC, CREAMY, AND ALWAYS A HIT

This Egg Macaroni Salad is everything you want in a side dish: simple, creamy, flavorful, and versatile. With just a few easy steps, basic ingredients, and a bit of chilling time, you’ll have a dish that fits seamlessly into any meal or event.

Whether you’re making it for a potluck, picnic, or your weekly meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easily customizable, stores well, and pairs perfectly with so many different dishes.

Once you make it, you’ll see why this classic combination of pasta, eggs, and creamy dressing

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